Isla Iguana, Wildlife refuge on Azuero Peninsula, Panama
Isla Iguana is a small island off the Azuero Peninsula with 55 hectares of land, white sand beaches, and shallow warm waters. Beneath the surface lies an expansive coral reef system with multiple coral types and hundreds of fish species living among the branches.
The island served as a military training ground during the 1940s, leaving behind visible craters that remain on the landscape today. It was later designated as a protected refuge to safeguard its natural resources and wildlife for future generations.
The site functions as a living classroom where visitors regularly observe nesting frigate birds and learn about tropical marine life through simple walks. Local guides share stories about how the ocean and island ecosystems depend on each other throughout the year.
The island is accessible only by boat from Playa El Arenal near Pedasi, a journey of about 20 to 30 minutes across open water. Visitors should follow marked trails, wear sturdy shoes, and bring sun protection, as shade is limited on the island.
The island is home to a large frigate bird colony whose members circle overhead in impressive numbers, making them easy to spot throughout the day. The coral reef system here has developed over centuries and supports an unusually rich variety of marine life.
GPS coordinates: 7.62900,-79.99800
Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:04
Panama features a variety of photographic settings, from the colonial district of Casco Viejo to the fine sandy beaches of the San Blas Islands. Panama City combines historic heritage and modern architecture, including Frank Gehry's Biomuseo and the Miraflores locks that showcase canal engineering....
Panama offers much more than its famous canal. The places in this collection show the country's range and variety. In the west, mountain landscapes and volcanoes rise above the land. Volcan Baru offers views of both oceans on clear days. Along the coasts, islands sit with tropical beaches and coral...
El Valle
109.5 km
Iglesia de Santiago Apóstol
96.8 km
Cerro Gaital
111.7 km
Saint Dominic Church of Parita
70.5 km
Isla Farallón
81.6 km
Casa Museo Belisario Porras
34.5 km
El Caño Archaeological Park
96.8 km
St. John Baptist Cathedral, Penonomé
107.1 km
Manuel F. Zárate House Museum
38 km
Finca "Pausílipo" del Doctor Belisario Porras
32.7 km
Capilla de San Juan de Dios
96.8 km
Isla Iguana Lighthouse
56 m
Playa Venao
30.7 km
Playa Cambutal
67.1 km
La India Dormida
110.8 km
Casa Museo Manuel F. Zárate
38 km
Finca Pausílipo
32.7 km
Church of Saint Michael
62.2 km
Iglesia de Santa Librada
34.5 km
Traditional architecture of Monagrillo
62.3 km
Catedral San Juan Bautista de Chitré
60.3 km
El Chorro Macho
112.1 km
Catedral de San Juan Bautista
107.1 km
Museo de la Nacionalidad
57.4 km
Escuela Presidente Porras No.1
34.3 km
Plaza de Parita
70.6 km
Painted rock
110.8 km
Iglesia de San Atanasio de Los Santos
57.3 kmVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes